Four years ago, Mount Pleasant Area softball enjoyed a record-setting season. The Vikings not only captured the second WPIAL title in program history, but they went on to win state gold a few weeks later. That team also yielded numerous college players, including several who went to the Division I ranks. That esteemed group included Katie Hutter, who is now finding her groove at Bowling Green State University. Hutter is the focus of this week’s Westmoreland Alum Q&A.

As a freshman at Mount Pleasant in 2019, Hutter made significant contributions. She played in all 21 games, hitting .442 with 15 runs and 11 RBIs. For her efforts, she was honored as an All-Section and All-WPIAL performer. The Vikings, meanwhile, went 19-2 overall on the season, including 10-0 in section play. In the WPIAL Class 4A postseason, Mount Pleasant defeated Ringgold and Thomas Jefferson to reach the title game. However, the Vikings were edged by Elizabeth Forward with gold on the line. In the state bracket, the Vikings rebounded with victories against Bellefonte and James Buchanan, but again came up short against the Warriors in the PIAA Class 4A semifinals to conclude the season.

The Vikings appeared poised to contend once again in 2020, but the season was cancelled as a result of COVID.

Back on the field in 2021, Hutter produced a .552 average, adding 35 runs, 16 RBIs, and a pair of home runs. She again was named All-Section and All-WPIAL, and she added All-State accolades to her resume. Collectively, the Vikings ascended even higher, going 21-3, including 8-1 in the section. In the playoffs, the Vikes bested Derry Area and Avonworth to reach the WPIAL Class 3A Championship. In that game, the Vikings left no doubt, blasting Ellwood City 15-0 to capture gold. In the PIAA tournament, Mount Pleasant defeated Bald Eagle Area, Avonworth, and Punxsutawney to reach the state title game. In the PIAA Class 3A Championship, the Vikings knocked off Mid Valley 5-3, proving to be the best team in Pennsylvania.

In her senior season, Hutter was even more successful at the plate, as she hit .597 with 41 runs, 22 RBIs, and six homers. Once again, she was honored as All-Section, All-WPIAL, and All-State. The Vikings took a step backwards, however, going 10-10 overall, including 5-5 in the section.

With her high school career in the rear view, Hutter matriculated to Bowling Green State University. As a freshman in 2023, Hutter played in 33 games, including 21 starts, hitting .196 with four runs, eight RBIs, one home run, and three steals. Collectively, the Falcons sputtered to a mark of 9-41, including just 2-28 in the Mid-American Conference (MAC).

Last season, Hutter was plagued by injuries, playing in just 13 games, including four starts. In those contests, she batted .158 with four runs and one RBI, stealing a pair of bases. The Falcons compiled a mark of 6-38 overall, including 3-23 in the MAC.

This season has been a resurgent one for Hutter, as she’s started all 37 contests, hitting .269 with 25 runs, 14 RBIs, two homers, and three steals. The Falcons have also improved this season, posting a record of 13-24 overall, including 5-8 in the MAC.

Katie set aside time to answer questions about her evolving role during her time at Bowling Green, her success in the classroom, and her fondest memory during her time at Mount Pleasant Area.

Q: Your offensive numbers have increased drastically this season. What have been the biggest factors in your improvement at the plate?

A: For over a year, I was having a pain in my right wrist when I would swing. I got countless X-rays and MRIs - no issue was found until fall 2024. An MRI showed that I had broken off a piece of a bone (hook of hamate) in the lower left corner of my right palm. I got surgery on October 30 to have this bone removed. Over winter break, I began a hitting progression and now I am swinging completely pain-free. Aside from the physical aspects, our new coaching staff here at BGSU has been tremendous and so supportive. My team and I are so thankful for all four of our coaches. They bring great knowledge to the field every day.

Q: How has your role evolved throughout your time at Bowling Green?

A: Freshman year, I was more of a follower. I learned a lot from the upperclassmen and overall transitioned well into college. Sophomore year, we were a young team; I did not play much because of the pain in my hand. So, I focused on being the best teammate and helping with whatever I could. Now, I have taken on a leadership role. We have a great group of girls who want to compete, and leadership comes naturally throughout our team.

Q: What was the biggest adjustment from high school softball to the college game?

A: Overall, the game is just a lot faster paced. Another big change is the stadium setting. It can be overwhelming, but you must remember it’s the same game and to just have fun.

Q: What team and individual objectives have you established for this season?

A: This year, we have been focusing on winning every pitch and inning. Competing is our biggest objective. We have found success in this.

Q: What led to your decision to attend Bowling Green?

A: The athletic staff, community, and school were just so nice and beautiful. It really did feel like home when I came here for the first time. My second time on campus was when I moved into my dorm.

Q: What is your major, and ideal future profession?

A: I am a sport management major with a minor in marketing. Ideally, I would like to be a director of marketing for a professional sports team. This summer I am interning with the Toledo Mud Hens as a Youth Sports Instructor and Kids Club Representative!

Q: You have twice been recognized as a scholar-athlete. What has been key to succeeding in the classroom?

A: We emphasize STUDENT-athlete. Academics come first. Something that personally helps me is making to-do lists so I do not miss an assignment. On game weeks, I like to get all my work done early in the week, so by the time we start playing, I can solely focus on softball and not be stressed about an assignment.

Q: What has been your most enjoyable college class?

A: So far, my introduction to sport management class was my favorite. I built a great relationship with the professor. Since the class, he has helped me schedule classes and get both of my internships. He has given me great networking opportunities.

Q: You were part of a state championship team at Mount Pleasant Area in 2021. What made that squad so special?

A: That team had a ton of talent throughout the entire lineup. Everyone played an important role that contributed to our success.

Q: What was your fondest high school memory?

A: Winning the state championship with my best friends in 2021. I will always remember the feeling when that last out was made and we dog piled in the middle of the field. Ending a season with a win is a pretty special thing.

Q: Do you still follow Mount Pleasant athletics and WPIAL softball?

A: Yes. My youngest brother, Brody, is currently a junior at Mount Pleasant, so I still follow most sports, especially the ones he participates in. WPIAL softball has always been so competitive. I think I will always follow it.

Q: If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would you choose?

A: Chicken Alfredo

Q: If you could give yourself advice as a high school freshman, what would it be?

A: Enjoy every moment. But do not let the highs get too high, or the lows get too low.